Waimea Canyon Tours and Activities

Waimea Canyon which includes a gorge or canyon
Waimea Canyon which includes a gorge or canyon and a waterfall
Waimea Canyon
Waimea Canyon showing a cascade and a gorge or canyon
Waimea Canyon showing landscape views and a gorge or canyon


Gaze out at the colorful greens and reds of the majestic peaks and troughs in Kauai’s Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

Waimea Canyon is a stunning valley of red-brown hills and green vegetation. This exceptional Hawaiian wonder stretches across 14 miles (23 kilometers) of tumultuous topography at a maximum depth of 3,600 feet (1,100 meters). Bring your camera for excellent photo opportunities in this scenic part of the world.

Drive through the park along the main road to reach Waimea Canyon Overlook, which offers a marvelous vista from a popular vantage point. Stop multiple times and leave your car in the parking lots of the Puu ka Pele and Puu Hinahina viewing areas and walk around.

Look for intriguing geographical features that make up the spectacular canyon, including deep valley gorges, jagged peaks and crested buttes. Rainbows often make an appearance over the canyon.

Continue traveling up the twisting road next to the long canyon, which is about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) wide. Bring snacks and refreshments and set up a picnic with your family with this wonderful backdrop. The canyon was formed by erosion from the Waimea River. Follow the winding trails that surround the canyon to see waterfalls and streams that add to the wonder of this natural treasure.

Take a helicopter ride with a tour operator around the island and appreciate the immense canyon from above. Walk along the ridges of the canyon and spot the comparatively small helicopters buzzing around. Continue hiking north through the park to reach Koke’e State Park, where you will find many trails and intriguing geological formations.

Make sure to bring hiking shoes and extra layers of clothing in anticipation of sudden changes in temperature and weather. Choose between a self-guided tour with a rental car and a tour bus operator.

Waimea Canyon is in Waimea Canyon State Park on the western side of the island of Kauai. Drive north for about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Waimea to reach the start of the park. Visit nearby attractions, such as the Ku’la Natural Area Reserve, the Pu’u O Kila Lookout and the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve.

Plan a trip to see Waimea Canyon

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Makai Club Resort
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay Resort

Tours & day trips

See all 18 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 8 activities

Water activities

See all 8 activities

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Waimea Canyon

Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort

Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort

3.5 out of 5
9400 Kaumualii Highway, Waimea, HI
Waimea Plantation Cottages, a Coast Resort
Hale La- Luxury Beach House with Central Air Conditioning!

Hale La- Luxury Beach House with Central Air Conditioning!

Kekaha
Hale La- Luxury Beach House with Central Air Conditioning!
Hawaiian Charm..Just Steps From The Ocean..On Kauai's Sunny W Side * TVNC4216

Hawaiian Charm..Just Steps From The Ocean..On Kauai's Sunny W Side * TVNC4216

Kekaha
Hawaiian Charm..Just Steps From The Ocean..On Kauai's Sunny W Side * TVNC4216
Kai Nalu, Spacious, Beachfront Home

Kai Nalu, Spacious, Beachfront Home

Waimea
Kai Nalu, Spacious, Beachfront Home
Hanalei Colony Resort

Hanalei Colony Resort

3.5 out of 5
5-7130 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI
Hanalei Colony Resort
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

5 out of 5
5520 Ka Haku Road, Princeville, HI
1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
Beachfront Luxury Home, Panoramic Ocean Views, Walk To Tunnels Beach TVNCU-1214

Beachfront Luxury Home, Panoramic Ocean Views, Walk To Tunnels Beach TVNCU-1214

Hanalei
Beachfront Luxury Home, Panoramic Ocean Views, Walk To Tunnels Beach TVNCU-1214
On Hanalei bay with panoramic ocean views. Steps to the beach and walk to town.

On Hanalei bay with panoramic ocean views. Steps to the beach and walk to town.

Hanalei
On Hanalei bay with panoramic ocean views. Steps to the beach and walk to town.
Makai Club Resort

Makai Club Resort

3.5 out of 5
4180 Lei O Papa Road, Princeville, HI
Makai Club Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon, known for its stunning sunsets, offers a range of activities including hiking, kayaking, and adventure outings. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas and take part in various tours, including exhilarating plane tours. Don't miss the hidden oasis of Kihei, which adds a unique touch to your experience. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Waimea Canyon has something for every Canadian tourist to enjoy.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, check out Talk Story Bookstore, located 19.3km away from Waimea Canyon. If you’re up for a drive, visit Princeville Center, 25.7km away, or the Coconut Marketplace, 35.4km away, both offering a vibrant shopping experience.

Recreation

Kekaha Beach Park, located 12.9km from Waimea Canyon, offers a tranquil spot for relaxation with its beautiful coastal views and gentle waves. For golf enthusiasts, both the Princeville Golf Club and Princeville Makai Golf Club, each 24.1km away, provide stunning landscapes and invigorating outdoor experiences.

Adventure

Embark on the Canyon Trail, a scenic hike located 4.8km from Waimea Canyon, where adventure awaits amidst breathtaking views. Alternatively, explore the Poipu Coast Trail, 12.9km away, for outdoor vibes, or challenge yourself on the Nu'alolo Trail, 8.0km distant, surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Find the best attractions near Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon offers a variety of attractions for adventurous travellers, including the stunning Waimea Canyon Lookout and the expansive Waimea Canyon State Park. Explore historic cottages and the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii through plantation homes. Don't miss the chance to relax at nearby Waimea Beach or discover breathtaking waterfalls, making your visit an unforgettable outdoor experience.

  • Na Pali Coast State Park: Experience breathtaking views and rugged cliffs at Na Pali Coast State Park, located 11.3km from Waimea Canyon. This park offers thrilling hiking trails, lush valleys, and stunning ocean vistas that are perfect for adventure seekers.
  • Waipo’o Falls: A romantic escape awaits you at Waipo’o Falls, just 1.4km from Waimea Canyon. Enjoy a picturesque hike leading to this stunning waterfall, where you can bask in nature's beauty and the tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for couples.
  • Barking Sands Beach: Stretching 12.9km from Waimea Canyon, Barking Sands Beach boasts pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. Embrace the laid-back beach vibes, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets on the Hawaiian coast.

Best time to go to Waimea Canyon

Visitor numbers around Waimea Canyon is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Waimea Canyon can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Waimea Canyon falls in August and September. August has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature around Waimea Canyon falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March71.4°F (21.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May75.0°F (23.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June77.0°F (25.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
July78.1°F (25.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August78.6°F (25.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September78.6°F (25.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
November75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December73.2°F (22.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waimea Canyon

To save money on your trip to Waimea Canyon, plan your visit between September and November for lower accommodation prices. Look for hotels about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays typically offer the best rates, while Wednesdays are the priciest. Enhance savings by booking a package that combines flights, hotels, and activities. Enjoy free activities at nearby Polihale State Park and Barking Sands Beach, and consider using public transport or carpooling to minimize travel costs around the area.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Waimea Canyon are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Waimea Canyon about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Waimea Canyon is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Waimea Canyon is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Waimea Canyon hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.